Yes, Virginia, There Is an Asthma Gene

OCTOBER 01, 2005

Researchers have discovered a gene that
seems to influence susceptibility to asthma.
Furthermore, the CYFIP2 protein produced
by the gene could serve as a target for new
asthma drugs, according to a study reported
in the American Journal of Respiratory andCritical Care Medicine (July 15, 2005).

In an earlier study, the researchers connected
mapped areas on chromosome 5
in patients with allergic asthma. For the
current study, the researchers took the
evidence a step beyond by identifying a
gene in this region that influences asthma
vulnerability. The investigators performed
genetic screening in 155 families with
asthma. The results showed 6 DNA
changes that affect the development of
asthma. These mutations were found in a
gene for CYFIP2. Further examination
suggested that CYFIP2 impacts the risk of
asthma by affecting the function of T cells.
The investigators said that more testing is
needed to explain how changes in these
cells may promote asthma.